The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, says Nigeria can generate five trillion Naira annually from mining and exporting of its vast solid mineral deposits.
Dr. Fayemi made the observation while in a meeting with other experts on Friday at the third Dr. John Agboola Odeyemi Lecture held at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
He expressed hope that the development would be accompanied with several multiplier effects on job creation and social infrastructure in various states across Nigeria.
The Minister added that Nigeria’s potentially most beneficial solid minerals such as: limestone, coal, diatomite, gold and silver among others were spread around the country.
He said it was necessary for the Federal, State and Local governments to partner with private investors, to harness the resources and turn it to a win-win situation for the nation.
In his speech at the event, Dr. Agboola, who was marking his 77th birthday, could not agree less with the Minister.
Other speakers at the event tagged ‘Harnessing Our Natural and Cultural Heritage for National Development’, were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Chairman of the occasion, Professor John Alo and a representative of the Vice Chancellor of OAU, Professor Omolayo Ajayi. (Channels TV)
•Photo shows Dr. Fayemi.
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